Hiking in Tennessee (TN) offers a variety of terrains for hikers to enjoy, from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the shores of the Mississippi River in the west.

Eastern Tennessee hiking is all about the mountains with the Appalachian Mountain range running through the state. Cherokee National Forest has over 600 miles of trails--they range from easy paths meandering through the wilderness to strenuous trails summiting mountains for scenic views. Great Smoky National Park provides access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the famous Appalachian Trail where hikers can make the steep climb up to Clingman's Dome, the highest point on the Appalachian Trail.

Middle Tennessee brings a change in topography with the Highland Rim, where hikers can find wooded trails sheltered by a thick tree canopy, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. Western Tennessee is defined by the shoreline of the Mississippi River--here hikers can find trails that wind through the lowlands in the scenic flood plains and pristine swamplands. Hike along the Mississippi River where trails are flat and easy enough for families with small children to enjoy. Hikers can even find trails near cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville as well.